This class is intended to provide an introduction to changes in media over time; we will also consider moments of "transition" (and regression) from one media form to another. Some weeks will focus on more theoretical questions, such as the changing relationship of media and human consciousness, or the concept of "revolution" in media change, while others will focus on particular moments of transition and their social, political, cultural, and economic implications. We will proceed in a roughly chronological order. Our goal is not to create the illusion of a complete survey of media change in the West over the past two thousand years (an impossible, and thankless, assignment!). Rather, the class should open up new perspectives, primarily historical, that will add depth to your thinking about comparative media today. Some of you may also glean ideas and comparisons from our work together that will be useful for your master's thesis.

Course Requirements

At our first meeting, each participant will sign up for a class presentation on a theme suggested by our common readings. Presentations will take into account required and supplemental reading for each class session. In addition, students are expected to read carefully the required readings for each week, and come to class prepared to share thoughtful questions and comments with the group. Lastly, each seminar member will prepare a final paper of approximately twenty pages in length. In certain well-defined situations, a substantial digital project may, with the consent of the instructor, be substituted for the final paper. The last two class sessions will be devoted to oral presentations of these projects. Instructions for oral presentations and the final paper will be handed out in class.

Grading

Assignments and responsibilities will be weighted as follows in determining the final grade: